COMMISSION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA (CCSBT)

The Convention for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT) came into play in 1994. The Convention established a Commission whose objectives are to ensure the conservation and optimum usage of the global Southern Bluefin Tuna fishery. In pursuit of this objective the CCSBT performs a number of functions including: setting a total allowable catch and allocating this among the members, coordinating a scientific research program, and convening a working group to discuss impact on non-target species.

HSI fears Southern Bluefin Tuna is being fished at levels far beyond 'optimum'. At last count the species biomass was reduced to 8% of its pre-exploitation levels and has been classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. HSI campaigns for this hugely lucrative fishery to be properly regulated as is appropriate for a threatened species.

Our other grave fears are for albatross and petrels killed on the longlines used to catch the southern bluefin tuna. We are regular attendees at CCSBT imploring countries to do more to stop this horrific bycatch.